Kanye West, the acclaimed yet controversial rapper, is stirring up more turmoil, this time on international grounds. In the lovely lanes of Venice, where he has been holidaying for six weeks with his partner Bianca Censori, West is unknowingly tangling himself with Italian law enforcement. As exclusively reported by MailOnline, Kanye West’s preference for wearing a mask in public, a style statement that he's known for, is landing him in potential legal trouble.
In Italy, any attire that obscures an individual’s identification is deemed illegal under its stringent anti-terror and public order legislation. Violators face a steep fine of up to 2,000 Euros. West's penchant for masking his face during his outings in Venice, Florence, and Milan, where he graced the renowned Fashion Week, is attracting the attention of local authorities.
The issues don’t end there. Venice police are already probing into a recent incident involving West and Censori, captured in a water taxi. Photographic evidence circulating worldwide exhibits the couple in a questionable pose, inciting further controversy and scrutiny. Authorities have identified the water taxi driver and have solicited the controversial photographs from paparazzi.
In light of these events, West now stands under the radar for potentially violating Article 533 of the Italian law. This specific law, instated in 1977 and updated in 2005 post a series of terror events, prohibits the wearing of full face coverings and crash helmets with limited exceptions.
Exceptions to the law do exist, primarily for religious purposes, and require individuals to obtain written authority from local entities. Despite these exceptions, West’s mask-wearing, devoid of any religious affiliations, does not align with legal allowances. Angelo Russo, a legal expert, informed MailOnline about the stringent nature of the law, emphasizing the necessity for clear identification to ensure public security.
The couple’s possible offense contrary to public decency is also under examination, another act punishable by a fine under Venice’s comprehensive public decorum bylaws. These bylaws cover a broad spectrum, including prohibitions on swimming in canals and open-air picnics, ensuring the preservation of Venice's historic and cultural integrity.
As Kanye West and Bianca Censori continue to navigate their Italian escapade, the looming investigation and potential legal repercussions stand as stark reminders of the importance of respecting international laws, even for the most famed individuals.
As the investigation unfolds, the world watches with bated breath to discern the legal fate of the high-profile couple amid the scenic waterways of Venice.